Flexible package and methods of making same

ABSTRACT

A flexible package being capable and being adapted for accommodating a multiplicity of compressed articles is provided. The package has a substantially parallelepiped-shape. A flexible package having a substantially folded flat-shape able to be converted into the unfolded flexible package is provided. Methods of manufacturing the flexible packages are also provided.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

A flexible package capable of receiving and holding a multiplicity ofcompressed articles, such as disposable absorbent articles is provided.More particularly, the invention provides a flexible package having asubstantially parallelepiped-shape. A flexible package having asubstantially folded flat-shape able to be converted into the unfoldedflexible package having a substantially parallelepiped-shape isprovided. Methods for making such flexible packages are provided.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Flexible packages are composed of flexible material such as athermoplastic film. Their use for packaging products such as disposableabsorbent articles, e.g. diapers, as well as feminine hygiene products,e.g. sanitary napkins is well known in the art, see for exampleInternational Patent Application WO2014/018329 A1.

The flexible package generally comprises front and rear walls which areconnected to each other (e.g. sealed) along first and second oppositeside walls with first and second side seams. The flexible package alsoincludes a third and fourth opposite side walls. The third side wall mayform the top wall of the flexible package. The third side wall comprisesa pair of gussets. The flexible package may also include a handle tofacilitate the carrying of the package. The products may be removed froma top opening.

The flexible package can be filled with a multiplicity of compressedarticles, typically by entering the compressed articles from the bottomof the flexible package. For this step, a folded flat-shape package isopened and unfolded from the bottom by an appropriate device. Then, thecompressed articles are introduced into the flexible package. Theappropriate device in combination with the compressed articles may exertsome tension on each of the first and second opposite side walls at therespective gusset, particularly along the first and second side seams.It might occur that the first and second side seams tear open due to thetension at the first and second opposite side walls. It is generallyknown in the industry to insert a slit at each gusset to relieve thefirst and second side walls from the tension exerted on them.

However, applying a slit at each gusset forms an opening in the finalpackage filled with the compressed articles. The compressed articles arein contact with the surrounding environment and might be contaminatedwith dust, lint or moisture for instance.

There is hence a need to provide a flexible package able to relieve thetension exerted at the first and second side walls while keeping thecompressed articles safe from any kind of contamination during at leastthe shelf life of the articles.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A flexible package for accommodating a multiplicity of compressedarticles, having a substantially parallelepiped-shape is provided andcomprises a front wall, a rear wall, a first and second opposite sidewall, a third and fourth opposite side wall and a pair of gussets. Theflexible package comprises a first panel which forms the front wall, aportion of each of the first and second opposite side wall and a portionof the fourth side wall. The third side wall may be a top wall of theflexible package. The fourth side wall may be a bottom wall of theflexible package. The flexible package comprises a second panel whichforms the rear wall, a portion of each of the first and second oppositeside wall and a portion of the fourth side wall. The first and thesecond panel are connected to each other at the first and secondopposite side wall along first and second side seams. The flexiblepackage comprises a third panel which forms the third side wall, whereinthe third panel comprises the pair of gussets.

Each gusset is located at the respective first or second side wall. Eachgusset comprises an internal panel and an external panel. The internalpanel and external panel of each gusset are made of triangular portionsof the third panel. The internal and external panels of each gusset arecoextensive at a first and second fold line to form a pocket. The firstand second fold lines of the pocket of each gusset converge and meet ata vertex. The vertex of each gusset is joined to the respective first orsecond side seam at the first or second side wall. The internal panel ofeach gusset comprises an altitude extending from the vertex of eachgusset to the third side wall. The altitude of the internal panel ofeach gusset has a length.

The internal panel of each gusset comprises a triangular area whichstarts from the vertex of each gusset towards the third side wall. Thetriangular area of the internal panel of each gusset has an altitudewhich coincides with the altitude of the internal panel of each gusset.The altitude of the triangular area of the internal panel of each gussethas a length which is from 1% to 30% of the length of the altitude ofthe internal panel of each gusset.

At least one gusset comprises an area of weakness located at least inthe internal panel of the at least one gusset within the triangular areaof the internal panel of the at least one gusset. The area of weaknessis located at or adjacent to the altitude of the internal panel of theat least one gusset.

A flexible package for accommodating a multiplicity of compressedarticles, having a substantially folded flat-shape able to be convertedinto an unfolded flexible package having a substantiallyparallelepiped-shape is provided and comprises a front wall, a rearwall, a first and second opposite side wall, a third and fourth oppositeside wall and a pair of gussets when the flexible package is convertedinto the unfolded flexible package. The flexible package comprises afirst panel which forms the front wall, a portion of each of the firstand second opposite side wall and a portion of the fourth side wall whenthe flexible package is converted into the unfolded flexible package.The flexible package comprises a second panel which forms the rear wall,a portion of each of the first and second opposite side wall and aportion of the fourth side wall when the flexible package is convertedinto the unfolded flexible package. The first and the second panel areconnected to each other along first and second side seams which arelocated at the first and second opposite side wall when the flexiblepackage is converted into the unfolded flexible package. The flexiblepackage comprises a third panel which forms the third side wall when theflexible package is converted into the unfolded flexible package. Thethird panel comprises the pair of gussets. Each gusset is located at therespective first or second side wall when the flexible package isconverted into the unfolded flexible package.

The flexible package comprises a film comprising a twofold portion and afourfold portion. The twofold portion of the film comprises first andsecond layers and the fourfold portion of the film comprises first andsecond outer layers and first and second inner layers. The first andsecond outer layers of the fourfold portion are coextensive with thefirst and second layers of the twofold portion of the film. The firstlayer of the twofold portion of the film forms the first panel. Thesecond layer of the twofold portion of the film forms the second panel.The first and second outer layers and the first and second inner layersof the fourfold portion of the film form the third panel. The first andsecond inner layers of the fourfold portion of the film mutually mergeat a medial fold line. The medial fold line of the third panel has alength from the first side seam to the second side seam.

The third panel comprises a first area spaced inboard from the firstside seam towards the second side seam and a second area spaced inboardfrom the second side seam towards the first side seam and wherein eachof the first and second area of the third panel has a length which isfrom 1% to 25% of the length of the medial fold line of the third panel.The flexible package comprises an area of weakness located in at leastone of the first or second area of the third panel and in at least oneof the first or second inner layers of the fourfold portion of the film.The area of weakness is located at or adjacent the medial fold line ofthe third panel.

The invention is further directed to a method of manufacturing aflexible package for accommodating a multiplicity of compressedarticles, having a substantially folded flat-shape able to be convertedinto an unfolded flexible package having a substantiallyparallelepiped-shape comprising:

-   -   a front wall, a rear wall, a first and second opposite side        wall, a third and fourth opposite side wall and a pair of        gussets;    -   a first panel, the first panel forming the front wall, a portion        of each of the first and second opposite side wall and a portion        of the fourth side wall when the flexible package is converted        into the unfolded flexible package;    -   a second panel, the second panel forming the rear wall, a        portion of each of the first and second opposite side wall and a        portion of the fourth side wall when the flexible package is        converted into the unfolded flexible package;    -   wherein the first and the second panel are connected to each        other along first and second side seams which are located at the        first and second opposite side wall when the flexible package is        converted into the unfolded flexible package;    -   a third panel, the third panel forming the third side wall when        the flexible package is converted into the unfolded flexible        package;    -   wherein the third panel comprises the pair of gussets;    -   wherein each gusset is located at the respective first or second        side wall when the flexible package is converted into the        unfolded flexible package;    -   comprising the steps of:    -   (a) providing a film in the form of an endless sheet travelling        in a machine direction and comprising in a cross machine        direction a twofold portion and a fourfold portion, the twofold        portion of the film comprising first and second layers and the        fourfold portion of the film comprising first and second outer        layers and first and second inner layers, wherein the first and        second outer layers of the fourfold portion are coextensive with        the first and second layers of the twofold portion of the film;    -   wherein the first layer of the twofold portion of the film forms        the first panel of the flexible package;    -   wherein the second layer of the twofold portion of the film        forms the second panel of the flexible package;    -   wherein the first and second outer layers and the first and        second inner layers of the fourfold portion of the film form the        third panel of the flexible package;    -   wherein the first and second inner layers of the fourfold        portion of the film mutually merge at a medial fold line;    -   (b) introducing areas of weakness at least at one of the first        or second inner layer of the fourfold portion of the film,        wherein the areas of weakness are located at or adjacent the        medial fold line and in an area at or adjacent where the first        and/or second side seams are formed; and    -   (c) sealing and cutting the first and second layers of the        twofold portion of the film and the outer and inner layers of        the fourfold portion of the film along a continuous straight        line in the cross machine direction to form the first and second        side seams of each flexible package.

Moreover, the invention is directed to a method of manufacturing aflexible package for accommodating a multiplicity of compressedarticles, having a substantially folded flat-shape able to be convertedinto an unfolded flexible package having a substantiallyparallelepiped-shape comprising:

-   -   a front wall, a rear wall, a first and second opposite side        wall, a third and fourth opposite side wall and a pair of        gussets;    -   a first panel, the first panel forming the front wall, a portion        of each of the first and second opposite side wall and a portion        of the fourth side wall when the flexible package is converted        into the unfolded flexible package;    -   a second panel, the second panel forming the rear wall, a        portion of each of the first and second opposite side wall and a        portion of the fourth side wall when the flexible package is        converted into the unfolded flexible package;    -   wherein the first and the second panel are connected to each        other along first and second side seams which are located at the        first and second opposite side wall when the flexible package is        converted into the unfolded flexible package;    -   a third panel, the third panel forming the third side wall when        the flexible package is converted into the unfolded flexible        package;    -   wherein the third panel comprises the pair of gussets;    -   wherein each gusset is located at the respective first or second        side wall when the flexible package is converted into the        unfolded flexible package;    -   comprising the steps of:    -   (a) providing a film in the form of an endless sheet travelling        in a machine direction, the film comprising a first, second and        medial fold line extending in the machine direction, wherein the        third panel is delimited by the first and second fold line,        wherein the medial fold line is centered between the first and        second fold line in the machine direction and divides the third        panel in a first and second half in the machine direction,    -   (b) introducing areas of weakness at least at one of the first        or second half of the third panel, wherein the areas of weakness        are located at or adjacent the medial fold line and in an area        at or adjacent where the first and/or second side seams are        formed; and    -   (c) folding the film in the cross machine direction to provide        the film comprising a twofold portion and a fourfold portion,        the twofold portion of the film comprising first and second        layers and the fourfold portion of the film comprising first and        second outer layers and first and second inner layers, wherein        the first and second outer layers of the fourfold portion are        coextensive with the first and second layers of the twofold        portion of the film;    -   wherein the first layer of the twofold portion of the film forms        the first panel;    -   wherein the second layer of the twofold portion of the film        forms the second panel;    -   wherein the first and second outer layers and the first and        second inner layers of the fourfold portion of the film forms        the third panel;    -   wherein the first and second inner layers of the fourfold        portion of the film mutually merge at the medial fold line; and    -   (d) sealing and cutting the first and second layers of the        twofold portion of the film and the outer and inner layers of        the fourfold portion of the film along a continuous straight        line in the cross machine direction to form the first and second        side seams of each flexible package.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

While the specification concludes with claims particularly pointing outand distinctly claiming the present invention, it is believed that thesame will be better understood from the following description read inconjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a flexible package within thescope of the invention;

FIG. 2 is a top view of the first, second and third panels of the filmin a flat state, i.e. before any folding has been performed to form theflexible package;

FIG. 3 is a side view of the flexible package taken to the inside thepackage to illustrate where the tension is applied on an internal panelof a gusset of the flexible package;

FIG. 4 is a side view of the flexible package of FIG. 1 illustrating afirst side wall and a gusset of the flexible package;

FIG. 5A is a portion of the side view of the flexible package of FIG. 1comprising a line of weakness at a gusset where the thickness of thefilm has been reduced or the film has been perforated;

FIG. 5B is a portion of the side view of the flexible package of FIG. 1comprising a wavy line of weakness at a gusset;

FIG. 5C is a portion of the side view of the flexible package of FIG. 1comprising a zigzag as an area of weakness at a gusset;

FIG. 5D is a portion of the side view of the flexible package of FIG. 1comprising a circle as an area of weakness at a gusset;

FIG. 5E is a portion of the side view of the flexible package of FIG. 1comprising a straight line of weakness at a gusset;

FIG. 5F is a portion of the side view of the flexible package of FIG. 1comprising a straight line of weakness at a gusset;

FIG. 5G is a portion of the side view of the flexible package of FIG. 1comprising a straight line of weakness at a gusset;

FIG. 5H is a portion of the side view of the flexible package of FIG. 1comprising a straight line of weakness at a gusset;

FIG. 5I is a portion of the side view of the flexible package of FIG. 1comprising a straight line of weakness comprising a first and secondportion of weakness at a gusset;

FIG. 6 is a front view of the flexible package having a substantiallyfolded flat-shape;

FIG. 7 is a front view of flexible packages during manufacturing from anendless sheet of a film;

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the endless sheet of the film ofFIG. 7 along a cutting plane 8-8;

FIG. 9 is a front view of flexible packages during manufacturing from anendless sheet of a film after formation of a plurality of areas ofweakness;

FIG. 10 is in a front view of two flexible packages during manufacturingafter formation of the side seams;

FIG. 11 is a top view from an endless sheet of a film after formation ofa plurality of areas of weakness.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Definition of Terms

The term “absorbent article” as used herein refers to devices whichabsorb and contain body exudates, and, more specifically, refers todevices which are placed against or in proximity to the body of thewearer to absorb and contain the various exudates discharged from thebody. Typical absorbent articles of the present invention include butare not limited to diapers, adult incontinence briefs, training pants,diaper holders and liners, absorbent inserts and the like, as well asfeminine hygiene products, such as sanitary napkins and panty liners,and the like. Absorbent articles also include wipes, such as householdcleaning wipes, baby wipes, and the like.

The term “altitude” as used herein refers to a line segment in atriangle extending from a vertex of the triangle towards an oppositeside of the vertex and forms a right angle with the opposite side. Forinstance, the altitude of each internal panel of each gusset extendsfrom the vertex of each internal panel of each gusset towards the thirdside wall. The altitude of the internal panel of each gusset forms aright angle with the third side wall.

“Comprise”, “comprising”, and “comprises” as used herein are open endedterms, each specifying the presence of what follows, e.g., a component,but not precluding the presence of other features, e.g., elements, stepsor components known in the art, or disclosed herein.

The term “compressed article” as used herein means that the articleshave been compressed in a flexible package at an In Bag Stack Height(i.e. the total caliper of 10 bi-folded or tri-folded diapers, measuredwhile under compression) of less than 90 mm.

The term “cross machine direction” or “CD” as used herein means thedirection perpendicular to the machine direction in the same plane ofthe endless sheet of flexible material comprising the fibrous structure.

The term “diaper” as used herein refers to absorbent articles generallyworn by infants and incontinent persons about the lower torso. Thediaper may be fastened onto the wearer using tapes or, alternatively,the diaper may have side seams, which are fastened together—bothpermanently or refastenably—such that the diaper is applied onto thewear like a conventional underwear (i.e. the user will put his legsthrough the respective leg openings and the diaper is then pulled up toits final position).

The term “disposable” as used herein refers to absorbent articles whichgenerally are not intended to be laundered or otherwise restored orreused (i.e., they are intended to be discarded after a single use and,preferably, to be recycled, composted or otherwise discarded in anenvironmentally compatible manner).

The term “film” as used herein refers to a substantially non-fibroussheet-like material wherein the length and width of the material farexceed the thickness of the material. Typically, films have a thicknessof about 0.5 mm or less.

The term “machine direction” or “MD” as used herein means the directionparallel to the flow of the endless sheet of flexible material throughthe flexible package making machine and/or product manufacturingequipment.

The term “vertex” as used herein refers to the end point where the firstand second folding lines of each gusset intersect. The vertex of eachgusset is joined to the respective first or second side seam.

As used herein the expressions “front”, “rear”, “outer”, “inner”,“longitudinal”, “transversal”, “top”, “side”, “bottom” and the like,when used to describe the flexible package, relate to a filled packageplaced in a carrying position with the bottom part facing downwards andthe top part facing upwards, such as e.g. shown in the figures. Some ofthese terms are also used with respect to the methods of manufacturingof the flexible package.

The flexible package in a parallelepiped shape

FIG. 1 shows a flexible package 1 within the scope of the invention. Theflexible package 1 has a substantially parallelepiped-shape, i.e. ahexahedron shape.

The flexible package 1 may be made of a material(s) which are flexiblesuch that the flexible package 1 may assume the parallelepiped-shapewhen it is filled with compressed articles.

The flexible package 1 of the present invention may comprise athermoplastic film or a laminate of more than one thermoplastic filmsbonded to each other prior to making the flexible package 1. Examples ofsuitable materials are polyethylene, polypropylene and polyethyleneterephthalate.

The flexible package 1 may comprise a multiplicity of compressedarticles, such as from 10 to 200 compressed articles or from 10 to 100compressed articles, e.g. compressed disposable absorbent articles. Forexample, the flexible package 1 of the present invention may be used foraccommodating a multiplicity of diapers. The diapers may be folded andthe multiplicity of folded diapers may be arranged in one or more rowswithin the package.

A diaper typically has a longitudinal axis and a transversal axis. Oneend portion of the diaper is configured as a front waist region of thediaper. The opposite end portion is configured as a back waist region ofthe diaper. An intermediate portion of the diaper is configured as acrotch region, which extends longitudinally between the front and backwaist regions. The crotch region is that portion of the diaper which,when the diaper is worn, is generally positioned between the wearer'slegs. Further, the transversal axis is typically in the crotch region ofthe diaper.

In a two-folded diaper, the diaper is folded in the crotch region alongits transversal axis or near its transversal axis. In the folded diaper,the front waist region is lying adjacent the back waist region and thefront and back waist region are substantially coextensive.

Alternatively, the diaper may be tri-folded, whereby one of the front orback waist region is folded over onto the crotch region where after theremaining waist region is folded over onto the first folded waist region

The flexible package 1 comprises a front wall 2, a rear wall 3 oppositeto the front wall 2, a first and second opposite side wall 4, 5, a thirdand fourth opposite side wall 6, 7 and a pair of gussets 10, 11.

The third side wall 6 may be a top wall of the flexible package 1. Thefourth side wall 7 may be a bottom wall of the flexible package 1, asshown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 2 shows a top view of a film 110 in a flat state, before anyfolding has been performed to manufacture and form the flexible package1 from the film 110. The flexible package 1 comprises a first panel 8.The first panel 8 forms the front wall 2, a portion of each of the firstand second opposite side wall 4, 5 and a portion of the fourth side wall7. A second panel 9 forms the rear wall 3, a portion 11 of each of thefirst and second opposite side wall 4, 5 and a portion of the fourthside wall 7. As shown in FIG. 1, the first and the second panels 8, 9are connected to each other at the first and second opposite side wall4, 5 along first and second side seams 12, 13. The first and second sideseams 12, 13 extend from the third side wall 6 of the package 1 to thefourth side wall 7 of the flexible package 1.

Furthermore, a third panel 15 forms the third side wall 6. The thirdpanel 15 comprises the pair of gussets 10, 11. Each gusset 10, 11 islocated at the respective first or second side wall 4, 5.

Each gusset 10 comprises an internal panel 16 and an external panel 17.The internal panel 16 and external panel 17 of each gusset 10 are madeof triangular portions of the third panel 15. The internal panel 16 andexternal panel 17 of each gusset 10 are coextensive at a first andsecond fold line 18, 19 to form a pocket 20, as exemplary indicated inFIG. 1.

The first and second fold line 18, 19 of the pocket 20 of each gusset 10converge and meet at a vertex 21. The vertex 21 of each gusset 10 isjoined to the respective first or second side seam 12, 13 at the firstor second side wall 4, 5.

When the flexible package 1 is filled with a multiplicity of compressedarticles, e.g. by entering the compressed articles from the not yetfolded and closed fourth side wall 7 of the flexible package 1, theappropriate device used to introduced the compressed articles inside theflexible package 120 together with the compressed articles may exertsome tension on each of the first and second opposite side wall 4, 5 ofthe flexible package 1. The compressed articles may slightly expandafter they have been introduced in the flexible package 1 and thus exertsome tension at the first and second opposite side walls 4, 5. Thetension are exerted on each of the gusset 10, 11 at the respective firstand second opposite side walls 4, 5, particularly along the first andsecond side seams 12, 13.

FIG. 3 is a side view of the flexible package 1 taken to the inside thepackage 1. Tension exerted by the compressed articles and/or by theapparatus may come from the vertex 21 of each gusset and extend from thevertex 21 of each gusset 10, 11 towards the third side wall 6. Thehighest tension are exerted from the vertex 21 of each gusset 10, 21along the respective side seams 12, 13 towards the third side wall 6. Itmight occur that the first and second side seams 12, 13 tear open ateach gusset 10, 11 due to the tension exerted at the first and secondopposite side walls 4, 5.

It is known in the industry to insert a slit at each gusset 10, 11 torelieve the first and second side walls 4, 5 from the tension exerted onthem. However, applying a slit at each gusset 10, 11 forms an opening.The compressed articles are in contact with the surrounding environmentand might be contaminated with dust, lint or moisture for instance.Also, some consumers may find it unpleasant to have the compressedarticles in contact with the surrounding environment or attempt to touchthe articles by passing a finger through the opening obtained from acontinuous slit in the pocket 20 of each gusset 10, 11.

Hence, rather than providing a slit, an area of weakness 25 has beenintroduced at a specific location in at least one gusset 10, 11. FIG. 4is a side view of the flexible package of FIG. 1 illustrating the firstside wall 4 with the gusset 10.

The internal panel 16 of each gusset 10 comprises an altitude 22extending from the vertex 21 of each gusset 10 towards the third sidewall 6. The altitude 22 of the internal panel 16 of each gusset 10 has alength L.

The internal panel 16 of each gusset 10 comprises a triangular area 24which starts from the vertex 21 of each gusset 10 towards the third sidewall 6. The triangular area 24 of the internal panel 16 of each gusset10 has an altitude 27 which coincides with the altitude 22 of theinternal panel 16 of each gusset.

The altitude 27 of the triangular area 24 of the internal panel 16 ofeach gusset 10 has a length 1 which is from 1% to 30% or from 1% to 15%or from 1% to 10% or from 1% to 5% of the length L of the altitude 22 ofthe internal panel 16 of each gusset 10.

At least one gusset 10 comprises an area of weakness 25 located at leastin the internal panel 16 of the at least one gusset 10 within thetriangular area 24 of the internal panel 16 of the at least one gusset10. The area of weakness 25 is located at or adjacent to the altitude 22of the internal panel 16 of the at least one gusset 10.

While it is not yet fully understood, it has been found that moretension can be exerted on one of the first side wall 4 rather than theopposite second side wall 5 when the compressed articles have differentsizes and/or arranged in a specific order.

Hence, it is beneficial to have at least one gusset 10 which comprisesan area of weakness 25 located at least in the internal panel 16 of theat least one gusset 10 within the triangular area 24 of the internalpanel 16 of the at least one gusset 10.

The area of weakness 25 is located at or adjacent to the altitude 22 ofthe internal panel 16 of the at least one gusset 10 because the tensionis exerted from the vertex 21 of each gusset 10, 11 towards the thirdside wall 6, and particularly along the respective first or second sideseams 12, 13. The first and second side seams 12, 13 are respectivelysubstantially parallel to or even coincide with the altitude 22 of eachinternal panel 16 of each gusset 10, 11.

Each gusset 10, 11 may comprise an area of weakness 25 which is locatedat least within the triangular area 24 of the internal panel 16 of eachgusset 10, 11. The area of weakness 25 may be located at or adjacent tothe altitude 22 of the internal panel 16 of each gusset 10, 11. In thatcase, the flexible package may comprise substantially identicalcompressed absorbent articles that exert tension on each gusset at eachfirst and second opposite side wall 4, 5.

The area of weakness 25 may have a pattern selected from the groupconsisting of a straight line, a wavy line, a zigzag, a circle andcombinations thereof, as exemplary shown in FIG. 5A-5I.

However, the area of weakness 25 is not a continuous slit. Otherwise, anopening may be formed and the compressed articles contained in theflexible package 1 may be in contact with the surrounding environment.

Generally, the flexible package 1 may be made of a film 110 having athickness. The film 110 may have a thickness of less than 0.50 mm orless than 0.20 mm or less than 0.13 mm or less than 0.08 mm or less than0.05 mm.

As shown in FIG. 5A, the area of weakness 251 may comprise a pluralityof straight lines 252 where the thickness of the film 110 is reduced orwhere the film 110 is perforated. The plurality of straight lines 252alternates with a plurality of solid straight lines 253. Each straightline 252 has a length and each solid straight line 253 has a length. Theratio between the length of each straight line 252 and the length ofeach solid straight line 253 may be from 1:6 to 1:2 or from 1:4 to 1:2or from 1:4 to 1:3.

The area of weakness 251 is therefore either a straight line of weaknesscomprising a plurality of lines where the thickness of the film 110 hasbeen reduced or a perforated straight line. In both cases, the area ofweakness 251 allows relieving the tension exerted on each gusset 10, 11without the formation of a continuous slit, i.e. opening. Hence, thearea of weakness 251 can prevent contamination of the compressedarticles from dust, lint or moisture at least during the shelf life ofthe compressed articles.

The area of weakness 25 may be a straight line of weakness 257 whichintersects the altitude 22 of the internal panel 16 of each gusset andforms an angle α ranging from 1 degree to 179 degrees or from 5 degreesto 175 degrees or from 10 degrees to 170 degrees, see for example FIG.5E.

As shown in FIG. 5F, the straight line of weakness 258 may beperpendicular to the altitude 22 of the internal panel 16 of each gusset10, 11. The straight line of weakness 258 may be also centered withregard to the altitude 22 of the internal panel 16 in order to betterdistribute the tension forces exerted on each gusset 10, 11.

The area of weakness 25 may be a line of weakness 259, 260 which startsfrom the altitude 22 of the internal panel 16 of each gusset 10, 11towards the front or rear wall 2, 3 (See for example FIGS. 5G and 5H).

The area of weakness 261 may comprise a first and second portion ofweakness 262, 263 which converge at an end point 264. The first andsecond portion of weakness 262, 263 may be a straight line of weakness.The end point 264 of the area of weakness 261 may be located at oradjacent to the altitude 22 of the internal panel 16 of each gusset 10,11. Each of the first and second portion of weakness 262, 263 may form afirst and second angle 131, 132 with respect to the altitude 22 of theinternal panel 16 of each gusset 10, 11. The first and second angle 131,132 formed by the first and second portion of weakness 262, 263 withrespect to the altitude 22 of the internal panel 16 of each gusset 10,11 are angles adjacent to each other and are from 1 degree to 179degrees or from 5 degrees to 175 degrees or from 10 degrees to 170degrees, and from 2 degree to 358 degrees or from 10 degrees to 350degrees or from 20 to 340 degrees together, see for example FIG. 5I.

The area of weakness 25 may selected from the group consisting of astraight line of weakness 257, 259, 260, a wavy line of weakness 253, azigzag 254, a straight line of weakness 251 where the thickness of thefilm 110 is reduced or where the film 110 is perforated and combinationsthereof. In those cases, the area of weakness 25 may have a length whichis from 2 mm to 20 mm or from 2 mm to 10 mm or from 2 mm to 5 mm. Thelength of the area of weakness 25 should not be seen as the shortestdistance from a starting point to an end point of the area of weakness25 but as the completely length.

The area of weakness 25 may be a circle 255 having a diameter. Thediameter of the circle 255 may be from 2 mm to 20 mm or from 2 mm to 10mm or from 2 mm to 5 mm.

The Flexible Package in a Folded Flat-Shape

A flexible package 120 for accommodating a multiplicity of compressedarticles is provided and has a substantially folded flat-shape. Theflexible package 120 is able to be converted into the unfolded flexiblepackage 1 having a substantially parallelepiped-shape. FIG. 6 shows aflexible package 120 within the scope of the invention.

When the flexible package 120 is converted into the unfolded flexiblepackage 1, the flexible package 120 comprises a front wall 2, a rearwall 3, a first and second opposite side wall 4, 5, a third and fourthopposite side wall 6, 7 and a pair of gussets 10, 11 (See FIG. 1). Whenthe flexible package 120 is converted into the unfolded flexible package1, the flexible package 120 comprises a first panel 8 which forms thefront wall 2, a portion of each of the first and second opposite sidewall 4, 5 and a portion of the fourth side wall 7. When the flexiblepackage 120 is converted into the unfolded flexible package 1, theflexible package 120 comprises a second panel 9 which forms the rearwall 3, a portion of each of the first and second opposite side wall 4,5 and a portion of the fourth side wall 7.

As exemplary indicated in FIG. 6, the first and second panel 8, 9 areconnected to each other along first and second side seams 12, 13 whichare located at the first and second opposite side wall 4, 5 when theflexible package 120 is converted into the unfolded flexible package 1.The flexible package 120 comprises a third panel 15 which forms thethird side wall 6 when the flexible package 120 is converted into theunfolded flexible package 1. The third panel 15 comprises the pair ofgussets 10, 11. Each gusset 10, 11 is located at the respective first orsecond side wall 4, 5 when the flexible package 120 is converted intothe unfolded flexible package 1.

When making the flexible package 120 from a film 110, the film 110 inthe form of an endless sheet is folded over itself multiple times so asto form a generally M-shaped film. The film 110 is folded along a first,second and medial fold lines 171, 172, 173, as shown for instance inFIG. 2. The first, second and medial fold lines 171, 172, 173 extend ina machine direction. A central region of the film 110 is delimited bythe two outer fold lines 171, 172.

The flexible package 120 comprises therefore a film 110 comprising atwofold portion 40 and a fourfold portion 50 which extends in themachine direction.

The twofold portion 40 of the film 110 comprises first and second layers41, 42. The fourfold portion 50 of the film 110 comprises first andsecond outer layers 51, 52 and first and second inner layers 53, 54. Thefirst and second inner layers 53, 54 are thus sandwiched between thefirst and second outer layers 51, 52 or the fourfold portion 50 of thefilm 110. The first and second outer layers 51, 52 of the fourfoldportion 50 are coextensive with the first and second layers 41, 42 ofthe twofold portion 40 of the film 110 (see for example FIG. 8).

The first layer 41 of the twofold portion 40 of the film 110 forms thefirst panel 8 of the flexible package 120. The second layer 42 of thetwofold portion of the film 110 forms the second panel 9 of the flexiblepackage 120.

The first and second outer layers 51, 52 and the first and second innerlayers 53, 54 of the fourfold portion 50 of the film 110 form the thirdpanel 15. Hence, the third panel 15 is in a M-folded configuration, asshown in FIG. 6.

The first and second inner layers 53, 54 of the fourfold portion 50 ofthe film 110 mutually merge at the medial fold line 173. Each innerlayer 53, 54 merges into the respective adjacent outer layer 51, 52 atthe respective first and second fold lines 171, 172 of the film 110. Theflexible package 120 thus comprises the medial fold line 173 in thethird panel 15.

The medial fold line 173 of the third panel 15 has a length D from thefirst side seam 12 to the second side seam 13.

The third panel 15 comprises a first area 31 spaced inboard from thefirst side seam 12 to the second side seam 13. The third panel 15comprises a second area 32 spaced inboard from the second side seam 13to the first side seam 12. Each of the first and second area 31, 32 ofthe third panel 15 has a length d which is from 1% to 25% or from 1% to15% or from 1% to 10% of the length D of the medial fold line 173 of thethird panel 15.

The flexible package 120 comprises an area of weakness 25 which islocated in at least one of the first and second area 31, 32 of the thirdpanel 15.

The flexible package 120 may comprise an area of weakness 25 which islocated in each of the first and second area 31, 32 of the third panel15.

The flexible package 120 when converted into the unfolded package 1 maycomprise a plurality of compressed articles that can exert tension oneach gusset 10, 11 at each first and second opposite side wall 4, 5. Anarea of weakness 25 which is located in each of the first and secondarea 31, 32 of the third panel 15 may allow relieving the tension ateach gusset 10, 11 at the respective first and second opposite side wall4, 5 when formed.

The flexible package 120 comprises an area of weakness 25 which islocated in at least one of the first or second inner layers 51, 52 ofthe fourfold portion 50 of the film 110.

In that case, the resulted flexible package 1 when unfolded may compriseas an area of weakness a straight line of weakness which starts from thealtitude 22 of the internal panel 16 of each gusset 10, 11 towards thefront or rear wall 2, 3.

The flexible package 120 may comprise an area of weakness 25 which islocated in the first and second inner layers 51, 52 of the fourfoldportion 50 of the film 110.

The area of weakness is located at or adjacent the medial fold line 173of the third panel 15.

The area of weakness may be a straight line of weakness 25A, 25B whichintersects the medial fold line 173 of the third panel 15 and forms anangle γ ranging from 1 degree to 179 degree or from 10 degrees to 170degrees or from 40 degrees to 120 degrees.

In that case, the resulted flexible package 1 when unfolded may comprisea straight line of weakness which comprise a first and second portion ofweakness 262, 263 which converge at an end point 264. The first andsecond portion of weakness 262, 263 is a straight line of weakness. Theend point 264 of the area of weakness 261 may be located at or adjacentto the altitude 22 of the internal panel 16 of each gusset 10, 11. Eachof the first and second portion of weakness 262, 263 may form a firstand second angle β1, β2 with respect to the altitude 22 of the internalpanel 16 of each gusset 10, 11. The first and second angle β1, β2 formedby the first and second portion of weakness 262, 263 with respect to thealtitude 22 of the internal panel 16 of each gusset 10, 11 are anglesadjacent to each other and are from 1 degree to 179 degrees or from 5degrees to 175 degrees or from 10 degrees to 170 degrees, and from 2degree to 358 degrees or from 10 degrees to 350 degrees or from 20 to340 degrees together.

The flexible package 120 may comprise a straight line of weakness whichis substantially perpendicular to the medial fold line 173 of the thirdpanel 15. In that case, the resulted flexible package 1 when unfoldedmay comprise a straight line of weakness which is substantiallyperpendicular to the altitude 22 of the internal panel 16 of each gusset10, 11. Hence, the straight line of weakness can allow distributing thetension exerted on each gusset 10, 11 of the flexible package 1.

Methods of Manufacturing the Flexible Package

A method for producing flexible packages by automated machinery will nowbe briefly described. FIGS. 7, 8, 9 and 10 schematically illustrate afirst possible way of manufacturing the flexible package 120 foraccommodating a multiplicity of compressed articles. FIG. 11schematically illustrates a second possible way of manufacturing theflexible package 120 for accommodating a multiplicity of compressedarticles. The flexible package 120 has a substantially folded flat-shapewhich is able to converted into an unfolded flexible package 1 having asubstantially parallelepiped-shape. The manufacture of the flexiblepackage 120 may start from a film 110 in the form of an endless sheettravelling in a machine direction. The film 110 forms the package body.The film 110 may be constituted by any of the above describedthermoplastic flexible films.

A method 200 of manufacturing the flexible package 120 is provided, themethod comprising comprising a front wall 2, a rear wall 3, a first andsecond opposite side wall 4, 5, a third and fourth opposite side wall 6,7 and a pair of gussets 10, 11 when the flexible package 120 isconverted into the unfolded flexible package 1. The flexible package 120comprises a first panel 8 which forms the front wall 2, a portion ofeach of the first and second opposite side wall 4, 5 and a portion ofthe fourth side wall 7 when the flexible package 120 is converted intothe unfolded flexible package 1. The flexible package 120 comprises asecond panel 9 which forms the rear wall 3, a portion of each of thefirst and second opposite side wall 4, 5 and a portion of the fourthside wall 7 when the flexible package 120 is converted into the unfoldedflexible package 1.

The first and second panel 8, 9 are connected to each other along firstand second side seams 12, 13 which are located at the first and secondopposite side wall 4, 5 when the flexible package 120 is converted intothe unfolded flexible package 1. The flexible package 120 comprises athird panel 15 which forms the third side wall 6 when the flexiblepackage 120 is converted into the unfolded flexible package 1. The thirdpanel 15 comprises the pair of gussets 10, 11. Each gusset 10, 11 islocated at the respective first or second side wall 4, 5 when theflexible package 120 is converted into the unfolded flexible package 1.

Folding of the Film 110

The method 200 comprises the step of folding the film 110. When makingthe flexible package 120 from a film 110, the film 110 in the form of anendless sheet is folded over itself multiple times so as to form agenerally M-shaped film. The film 110 is folded along a first, secondand medial fold lines 171, 172, 173. The first, second and medial foldlines 171, 172, 173 extend in the machine direction. A central region ofthe film 110 is delimited by the two outer fold lines 171, 172.

The method 200 comprises the step of providing a film 110 in the form ofan endless sheet travelling in a machine direction and comprising in across machine direction a twofold portion 40 and a fourfold portion 50which extends in the machine direction, as shown in FIG. 7.

The twofold portion 40 of the film 110 comprises first and second layers41, 42. The fourfold portion 50 of the film 110 comprises first andsecond outer layers 51, 52 and first and second inner layers 53, 54. Thefirst and second inner layers 53, 54 are thus sandwiched between thefirst and second outer layers 51, 52 or the fourfold portion 50 of thefilm 110. The first and second outer layers 51, 52 of the fourfoldportion 50 are coextensive with the first and second layers 41, 42 ofthe twofold portion 40 of the film 110 (see for example FIG. 8).

The first layer 41 of the twofold portion 40 of the film 110 forms thefirst panel 8 of the flexible package 120. The second layer 42 of thetwofold portion of the film 110 from the second panel 9 of the flexiblepackage 120.

The first and second outer layers 51, 52 and the first and second innerlayers 53, 54 of the fourfold portion 50 of the film 110 form the thirdpanel 15. Hence, the third panel 15 is in a M-folded configuration asshown in FIG. 6.

The first and second inner layers 53, 54 of the fourfold portion 50 ofthe film 110 mutually merge at the medial fold line 173. Each innerlayer 53, 54 merges into the respective adjacent outer layer 51, 52 atthe respective first and second fold lines 171, 172 of the film 110. Theflexible package 120 thus comprises the medial fold line 173 in thethird panel 15.

Introducing Areas of Weakness

The method 200 comprises the step of introducing areas of weakness 25 atleast at one of the first or second inner layer 53, 54 of the fourfoldportion 50 of the film 110. The areas of weakness 25 are located at oradjacent the medial fold line 173 and in an area at or adjacent wherethe first and/or second side seams 12, 13 are formed, as exemplary shownin FIG. 9. The film 110 in a M-folded state may be opened by anappropriate device in order to get access to one of the first or secondinner layer 53, 54 of the fourfold portion 50 of the film 110.

The method 200 may comprise the step of introducing areas of weakness 25at the first and second inner layer 53, 54 of the fourfold portion 50 ofthe film 110. The areas of weakness 25 are located at or adjacent themedial fold line 173 and in an area at or adjacent where the firstand/or second side seams 12, 13 are formed.

The areas of weakness 25 may be introduced by perforation with a knifeor by using a laser beam. When using a laser beam, a focused spot ofenergy allows removing some film material at specific locations to aspecified depth. Hence, areas of weakness comprising a plurality ofstraight lines 252 where the thickness of the film 110 is reduced orwhere the film 110 is perforated with a plurality of solid straightlines 253 may be produced by using a laser beam. Each straight line 252has a length and each solid straight line 253 has a length. The ratiobetween the length of each straight line 252 and the length of eachsolid straight line 253 may be from 1:6 to 1:2 or from 1:4 to 1:2 orfrom 1:4 to 1:3.

When areas of weakness 25 are introduced in one of the first or secondinner layer 53, 54 of the fourfold portion 50 of the film 110, therespective unaltered first or second inner layer 53, 54 may be preservedby the use of a plate made of steel for instance, which is placedbetween the first and second inner layer 53, 54 of the fourfold portion50. Then, the laser beam may only weaken one of the first or secondinner layer 53, 54 of the fourfold portion 50 of the film 110.

Final Sealing and Cutting

The first and second layers 41, 42 of the twofold portion 40 of the film110 are sealed to the outer and inner layers 51, 52, 53, 54 of thefourfold portion 50 of the film 110. The first and second layers 41, 42of the twofold portion 40 of the film 110 sealed to the outer and innerlayers 51, 52, 53, 54 of the fourfold portion 50 of the film 110 aresimultaneously cut in the area where they are sealed.

The sealing and cutting step is performed along a continuous straightline in the cross machine direction, which results in the formation ofthe two opposite side seams 12, 13 of the flexible package 120, as shownin FIG. 10.

An alternative method 300 of manufacturing the flexible package 120 isprovided, the method comprising a front wall 2, a rear wall 3, a firstand second opposite side wall 4, 5, a third and fourth opposite sidewall 6, 7 and a pair of gussets 10, 11 when the flexible package 120 isconverted into the unfolded flexible package 1. When the flexiblepackage 120 is converted into the unfolded flexible package 1, theflexible package 120 comprises a first panel 8 which forms the frontwall 2, a portion of each of the first and second opposite side wall 4,5 and a portion of the fourth side wall 7. When the flexible package 120is converted into the unfolded flexible package 1, the flexible package120 comprises a second panel 9 which forms the rear wall 3, a portion ofeach of the first and second opposite side wall 4, 5 and a portion ofthe fourth side wall 7.

The first and second panel 8, 9 are connected to each other along firstand second side seams 12, 13 which are located at the first and secondopposite side wall 4, 5 when the flexible package 120 is converted intothe unfolded flexible package 1. The flexible package 120 comprises athird panel 15 which forms the third side wall 6 when the flexiblepackage 120 is converted into the unfolded flexible package 1. The thirdpanel 15 comprises the pair of gussets 10, 11. Each gusset 10, 11 islocated at the respective first or second side wall 4, 5 when theflexible package 120 is converted into the unfolded flexible package 1.

The method 300 comprises the step of providing a film 110 in the form ofan endless sheet travelling in the machine direction. The film 110comprises a first, second and medial fold lines 171, 172, 173 extendingin the machine direction. A central region of the film 110 is delimitedby the two outer fold lines 171, 172. The third panel 15 is thusdelimited by the first and second fold line 171, 172. The medial foldline 173 is centered between the first and second fold line 171, 172 inthe machine direction and divides the third panel 15 in a first andsecond half 15A, 15B in the machine direction, as shown in FIG. 11. Whenthe film 110 is later M-folded, the first and second half 15A, 15Bbecomes the respective first and second inner layer 53, 54 of thefourfold portion 50 of the film 110.

Introducing Areas of Weakness

The method 300 comprises the step of introducing areas of weakness 25 atleast at one of the first or second half 15A, 15B of the third panel 15.The areas of weakness 25 are located at or adjacent the medial fold line173 and in an area at or adjacent where the first and/or second sideseams 12, 13 are formed, as exemplary shown in FIG. 11.

The method 300 may comprise the step of introducing areas of weakness 25at the first and second half 15A, 15B of the third panel 15. The areasof weakness 25 are located at or adjacent the medial fold line 173 andin an area at or adjacent where the first and/or second side seams 12,13 are formed, as exemplary shown in FIG. 11.

The areas of weakness 25 may be introduced by perforation with a knifeor by using a laser beam as set out above.

In the method 300, the areas of weakness 25 are introduced in the film110 in a flat state before any M-folding. Hence, the method 300 is acontinuous method compared to the method 200. Also, the positioning ofthe areas of weakness 25 at one of the first or second half 15A, 15B ofthe third panel 15 which become one of the first or second inner layer53, 54 of the fourfold portion 50 of the M-folded film 110 is lesscomplex. The film 110 in the flat state does not require the use of anyplate to protect one the first or second inner layer 53, 54. Any patternfor the area of weakness as set out above is therefore obtainedconveniently.

In particular, the alternative method 300 is adequate in order tointroduce a straight line of weakness 257 which intersects the altitude22 of the internal panel 16 of each gusset 10, 11 and forms an angle αranging from 1 degree to 179 degrees with respect with the altitude 22of the internal panel 16 of each gusset 10, 11 in the flexible package1. For this, a straight line of weakness is introduced at the first andsecond half 15A, 15B of the third panel 15. The areas of weakness 25 arelocated at or adjacent the medial fold line 173 and in an area at oradjacent where the first and/or second side seams 12, 13 are formed. Thestraight line of weakness forms an angle α ranging from 1 degree to 179degrees or from 5 degrees to 175 degrees or from 10 degrees to 170degrees with respect with the medial fold line 173 of the film 110.

Folding of the Film 110

The method 300 comprises the step of folding the film 110 in the crossmachine direction to provide the film 110 comprising a twofold portion40 and a fourfold portion 50.

The twofold portion 40 of the film 110 comprises first and second layers41, 42. The fourfold portion 50 of the film 110 comprises first andsecond outer layers 51, 52 and first and second inner layers 53, 54. Thefirst and second outer layers 51, 52 of the fourfold portion 50 arecoextensive with the first and second layers 41, 42 of the twofoldportion 40 of the film 110.

The first layer 41 of the twofold portion 40 of the film 110 forms thefirst panel 8 of the flexible package 120. The second layer 42 of thetwofold portion of the film 110 from the second panel 9 of the flexiblepackage 120.

The first and second outer layers 51, 52 and the first and second innerlayers 53, 54 of the fourfold portion 50 of the film 110 form the thirdpanel 15. Hence, the third panel 15 is in a M-folded configuration.

The first and second inner layers 53, 54 of the fourfold portion 50 ofthe film 110 mutually merge at the medial fold line 173.

Final Sealing and Cutting

The method 300 comprises the step of sealing the first and second layers41, 42 of the twofold portion 40 of the film 110 and the outer and innerlayers 51, 52, 53, 54 of the fourfold portion 50 of the film 110. Thefirst and second layers 41, 42 of the twofold portion 40 of the film 110sealed to the outer and inner layers 51, 52, 53, 54 of the fourfoldportion 50 of the film 110 are simultaneously cut in the area where theyare sealed.

The sealing and cutting step is performed along a continuous straightline in the cross machine direction, which results in the formation ofthe two opposite side seams 12, 13 of the flexible package 120.

The dimensions and values disclosed herein are not to be understood asbeing strictly limited to the exact numerical values recited. Instead,unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to mean boththe recited value and a functionally equivalent range surrounding thatvalue. For example, a dimension disclosed as “40 mm” is intended to mean“about 40 mm.”

Every document cited herein, including any cross referenced or relatedpatent or application, is hereby incorporated herein by reference in itsentirety unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited. The citation ofany document is not an admission that it is prior art with respect toany invention disclosed or claimed herein or that it alone, or in anycombination with any other reference or references, teaches, suggests ordiscloses any such invention. Further, to the extent that any meaning ordefinition of a term in this document conflicts with any meaning ordefinition of the same term in a document incorporated by reference, themeaning or definition assigned to that term in this document shallgovern.

While particular embodiments of the present invention have beenillustrated and described, it would be obvious to those skilled in theart that various other changes and modifications can be made withoutdeparting from the spirit and scope of the invention. It is thereforeintended to cover in the appended claims all such changes andmodifications that are within the scope of this invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A flexible package for accommodating amultiplicity of compressed articles, having a substantiallyparallelepiped-shape comprising: a front wall, a rear wall, a first andsecond opposite side wall, a third and fourth opposite side wall and apair of gussets; a first panel, the first panel forming the front wall,a portion of each of the first and second opposite side wall and aportion of the fourth side wall; a second panel, the second panelforming the rear wall, a portion of each of the first and secondopposite side wall and a portion of the fourth side wall; wherein thefirst and the second panel are connected to each other at the first andsecond opposite side wall along first and second side seam; a thirdpanel, the third panel forming the third side wall; wherein the thirdpanel comprises the pair of gussets; wherein each gusset is located atthe respective first or second side wall; wherein each gusset comprisesan internal panel and an external panel; wherein the internal panel andexternal panel of each gusset are made of triangular portions of thethird panel; wherein the internal and external panel of each gusset arecoextensive at a first and second fold line to form a pocket; whereinthe first and second fold line of the pocket of each gusset converge andmeet at a vertex; wherein the vertex of each gusset is joined to therespective first or second side seam at the first or second side wall;wherein the internal panel of each gusset comprises an altitudeextending from the vertex of each gusset towards the third side wall;wherein the altitude of the internal panel of each gusset has a length(L); wherein the internal panel of each gusset comprises a triangulararea which starts from the vertex of each gusset towards the third sidewall; wherein the triangular area of the internal panel of each gussethas an altitude which coincides with the altitude of the internal panelof each gusset; wherein the altitude of the triangular area of theinternal panel of each gusset has a length (l) which is from 1% to 30%of the length (L) of the altitude of the internal panel of each gusset;and wherein at least one gusset comprises an area of weakness located atleast in the internal panel of the at least one gusset within thetriangular area of the internal panel of the at least one gusset; andwherein the area of weakness is located at or adjacent to the altitudeof the internal panel of the at least one gusset.
 2. The flexiblepackage of claim 1 wherein each gusset comprises an area of weaknesslocated at least within the triangular area of the internal panel ofeach gusset, wherein the area of weakness is located at or adjacent tothe altitude of the internal panel of each gusset.
 3. The flexiblepackage of claim 1 wherein the area of weakness has a pattern selectedfrom the group consisting of a straight line, a wavy line, a zigzag, acircle and combinations thereof.
 4. The flexible package of claim 1wherein the area of weakness is not a continuous slit.
 5. The flexiblepackage of claim 1 wherein the flexible package is made of a film havinga thickness, wherein the area of weakness comprises a plurality ofstraight lines where the thickness of the film is reduced or where thefilm is perforated, wherein the plurality of straight lines alternateswith a plurality of solid straight lines, wherein each straight line hasa length and each solid straight line has a length, wherein the ratiobetween the length of each straight line and the length of each solidstraight line is from 1:6 to 1:2.
 6. The flexible package of claim 1wherein the area of weakness is a straight line of weakness whichintersects the altitude of the internal panel of the at least one gussetand forms an angle (α) ranging from 1 degree to 179 degrees with respectwith the altitude of the internal panel of the at least one gusset. 7.The flexible package of claim 6 wherein the area of weakness starts fromthe altitude of the internal panel of the at least one gusset andextends towards the front or rear wall.
 8. The flexible package of claim1 wherein the area of weakness comprises a first and second portion ofweakness which converge at an end point, wherein the end point islocated at or adjacent to the altitude of the internal panel of the atleast one gusset, wherein each of the first and second portion ofweakness forms a first and second angle (β1, β2) with respect to thealtitude of the internal panel of the at least one gusset, wherein, withrespect to the altitude of the internal panel of the at least onegusset, the first and second angle (β1, β2) are angles adjacent to eachother and are each from 1 degree to 179 degrees.
 9. The flexible packageof claim 1 wherein the area of weakness is selected from the groupconsisting of a straight line of weakness, a wavy line of weakness, azigzag, a straight line of weakness where the thickness of the film isreduced or where the film is perforated and combinations thereof; andwherein the area of weakness has a length which is from 2 mm to 20 mm orwherein the area of weakness is a circle having a diameter, wherein thediameter of the circle is from 2 mm to 20 mm.
 10. A flexible package foraccommodating a multiplicity of compressed articles, having asubstantially folded flat-shape able to be converted into an unfoldedflexible package having a substantially parallelepiped-shape comprising:a front wall, a rear wall, a first and second opposite side wall, athird and fourth opposite side wall and a pair of gussets when theflexible package is converted into the unfolded flexible package; afirst panel, the first panel forming the front wall, a portion of eachof the first and second opposite side wall and a portion of the fourthside wall when the flexible package is converted into the unfoldedflexible package; a second panel, the second panel forming the rearwall, a portion of each of the first and second opposite side wall and aportion of the fourth side wall when the flexible package is convertedinto the unfolded flexible package; wherein the first and the secondpanel are connected to each other along first and second side seam whichare located at the first and second opposite side wall when the flexiblepackage is converted into the unfolded flexible package; a third panel,the third panel forming the third side wall when the flexible package isconverted into the unfolded flexible package; wherein the third panelcomprises the pair of gussets; wherein each gusset is located at therespective first or second side wall when the flexible package isconverted into the unfolded flexible package; wherein the flexiblepackage comprises a film comprising a twofold portion and a fourfoldportion, the twofold portion of the film comprising first and secondlayers and the fourfold portion of the film comprising first and secondouter layers and first and second inner layers, wherein the first andsecond outer layers of the fourfold portion are coextensive with thefirst and second layers of the twofold portion of the film; wherein thefirst layer of the twofold portion of the film forms the first panel;wherein the second layer of the twofold portion of the film forms thesecond panel; wherein the first and second outer layers and the firstand second inner layers of the fourfold portion of the film form thethird panel; wherein the first and second inner layers of the fourfoldportion of the film mutually merge at a medial fold line, wherein themedial fold line of the third panel has a length (D) from the first sideseam to the second side seam; wherein the third panel comprises a firstarea spaced inboard from the first side seam towards the second sideseam and a second area spaced inboard from the second side seam towardsthe first side seam and wherein each of the first and second area of thethird panel has a length (d) which is from 1% to 25% of the length (D)of the medial fold line of the third panel; wherein the flexible packagecomprises an area of weakness located in at least one of the first orsecond area of the third panel and in at least one of the first orsecond inner layers of the fourfold portion of the film; and wherein thearea of weakness is located at or adjacent the medial fold line of thethird panel.
 11. The flexible package of claim 10 wherein the flexiblepackage comprises an area of weakness located in each of the first andsecond inner layers of the fourfold portion of the film.
 12. Theflexible package of claim 10 wherein the flexible package comprises anarea of weakness located in each of the first and second areas of thethird panel.
 13. A method of manufacturing a flexible package foraccommodating a multiplicity of compressed articles, having asubstantially folded flat-shape able to be converted into an unfoldedflexible package configuration having a substantiallyparallelepiped-shape comprising, in said unfolded flexible packageconfiguration: a front wall, a rear wall, a first and second oppositeside wall, a third and fourth opposite side wall and a pair of gussets;a first panel forming the front wall, a portion of each of the first andsecond opposite side wall and a portion of the fourth side wall; asecond panel forming the rear wall, a portion of each of the first andsecond opposite side wall and a portion of the fourth side wall; whereinthe first and the second panel are connected to each other along firstand second side seam which are located at the first and second oppositeside walls respectively; a third panel forming the third side wall;wherein the third panel comprises the pair of gussets; wherein eachgusset is located at the respective first or second side wall; themethod comprising the steps of: (a) providing a film in the form of anendless sheet travelling in a machine direction and comprising in across machine direction a twofold portion and a fourfold portion, thetwofold portion of the film comprising first and second layers and thefourfold portion of the film comprising first and second outer layersand first and second inner layers, wherein the first and second outerlayers of the fourfold portion are coextensive with the first and secondlayers of the twofold portion of the film; wherein the first layer ofthe twofold portion of the film forms the first panel of the flexiblepackage; wherein the second layer of the twofold portion of the filmforms the second panel of the flexible package; wherein the first andsecond outer layers and the first and second inner layers of thefourfold portion of the film form the third panel of the flexiblepackage; wherein the first and second inner layers of the fourfoldportion of the film mutually merge at a medial fold line; (b)introducing areas of weakness at least at one of the first or secondinner layer of the fourfold portion of the film, wherein the areas ofweakness are located at or adjacent the medial fold line and in an areaat or adjacent where the first and/or second side seam are formed; and(c) sealing and cutting the first and second layers of the twofoldportion of the film and the outer and inner layers of the fourfoldportion of the film along a continuous straight line in the crossmachine direction to form the first and second side seam of eachflexible package.
 14. The method according to claim 13, wherein the step(b) further comprises introducing areas of weakness at the first andsecond inner layers of the fourfold portion of the film, wherein theareas of weakness are located at or adjacent the medial fold line and inan area at or adjacent where the first and second side seam are formed.15. A method of manufacturing a flexible package for accommodating amultiplicity of compressed articles, having a substantially foldedflat-shape able to be converted into an unfolded flexible packageconfiguration having a substantially parallelepiped-shape comprising, insaid unfolded flexible package configuration: a front wall, a rear wall,a first and second opposite side wall, a third and fourth opposite sidewall and a pair of gussets; a first panel, the first panel forming thefront wall, a portion of each of the first and second opposite side walland a portion of the fourth side wall; a second panel, the second panelforming the rear wall, a portion of each of the first and secondopposite side wall and a portion of the fourth side wall; wherein thefirst and the second panel are connected to each other along first andsecond side seam which are located at the first and second opposite sidewall; a third panel, the third panel forming the third side wall;wherein the third panel comprises the pair of gussets; wherein eachgusset is located at the respective first or second side wall; themethod comprising the steps of: (a) providing a film in the form of anendless sheet travelling in a machine direction, the film comprising afirst, second and medial fold line extending in the machine direction,wherein the third panel is delimited by the first and second fold line,wherein the medial fold line is centered between the first and secondfold line in the machine direction and divides the third panel in afirst and second half in the machine direction, (b) introducing areas ofweakness at least at one of the first or second half of the third panel,wherein the areas of weakness are located at or adjacent the medial foldline and in an area at or adjacent where the first and/or second sideseam are formed; and (c) folding the film in the cross machine directionto provide the film comprising a twofold portion and a fourfold portion,the twofold portion of the film comprising first and second layers andthe fourfold portion of the film comprising first and second outerlayers and first and second inner layers, wherein the first and secondouter layers of the fourfold portion are coextensive with the first andsecond layers of the twofold portion of the film; wherein the firstlayer of the twofold portion of the film forms the first panel; whereinthe second layer of the twofold portion of the film forms the secondpanel; wherein the first and second outer layers and the first andsecond inner layers of the fourfold portion of the film forms the thirdpanel; wherein the first and second inner layers of the fourfold portionof the film mutually merge at the medial fold line; and (d) sealing andcutting the first and second layers of the twofold portion of the filmand the outer and inner layers of the fourfold portion of the film alonga continuous straight line in the cross machine direction to form thefirst and second side seam of each flexible package.
 16. The methodaccording to claim 15, wherein the step (b) further comprisesintroducing areas of weakness at the first and second half of the thirdpanel, wherein the areas of weakness are located at or adjacent themedial fold line and in an area at or adjacent where the first andsecond side seam are formed.